Design Between the Lines: A Conversation with David Laydon

This month I had the pleasure of sitting down with David Laydon to get his thoughts on lab design from the perspective of a trained scientist and subject matter expert. David has been with Facility Logix for about three and a half years and currently serves as a project manager along with being one of the several subject matter experts in the life science industry, particularly as it relates to regulatory compliance and laboratory design/requirements. 

Lori: What led you to the biotech industry? Did you always know you were interested in microbiology?

David: My path to the biotech world was not linear; I did not start in biotech, but I eventually found my way to that sector. I've been interested in understanding the technologies that go into creating cures for diseases and treatments for some of the world's nastiest pathogens since starting out of school. Early in my career, I was lucky enough to work with a well-known pharma company and was immersed in a quality mindset, focusing on environmental monitoring and clean room requirements.  That love and appreciation of what goes into the biopharma universe really stuck with me.

As for microbiology, I always had an affinity for it, particularly as it relates to disease pathogenesis.  My original intent when I started my educational journey was to study medicine; however, after getting the opportunity to work both in research and infectious disease, I became captivated.  I have been very fortunate to experience the full gauntlet of work in the microbiological field, from environmental monitoring to research, quality assurance, analytical testing, and auditing.

Lori: To clarify for readers in the AEC industry, can you describe the distinction between microbiology and biotech?

David: Research into the theory of microbiology feeds biotech. Biotech, generally, is the application of other sciences, particularly microbiology, to develop tools used for the treatment of patients. Microbiology is a big field with many specializations, but in general, it is the study of the interactions of microorganisms. As we begin to learn more about the interaction between disease and patients, more and more technology can be developed.

Lori: This background must be helpful in your current role.  Was there a specific turning point that made you interested in consulting?

David: There was not a specific turning point that made me interested in consulting per se, but rather, becoming a consultant manifested out of my enjoyment of learning and sharing information with others. I have always been and always will be an open book, and I believe sharing knowledge and experience is one of the most important aspects of life. I come from a family that has always prioritized this ethos, and I love the opportunity to help others by means of knowledge sharing.

Lori: What is the most satisfying aspect of your role on the project management/owner's representative side of the table?

David: Working with the clients themselves really has been the most satisfying aspect of my role.  The level of knowledge, insight, and passion our clients bring to the table has allowed me to learn so much through our conversations. It is this passion and drive to bring life-changing therapies to patients and seeing their eyes light up while discussing it that gets me up in the morning.

 Lori: Based on your experience, what is one thing you wish architects would consider in the lab planning process that ordinarily isn't thoroughly considered? And at what point should that conversation ideally start?

David: I would say the one thing that I wish architects would consider in the lab planning process is to create a distinction between private-sector and government-driven requirements. While NIH design standards are a fantastic place to start, and that knowledge is useful in informing design conversations, there are some nuances between the two sectors that may lead to over-engineering the design for private clients. Understanding the lab’s goals and operational needs will be important to determine whether code minimums are sufficient, or if a more robust, NIH-inspired design would be needed to achieve the necessary operational outputs. The conversation should occur during initial discussions surrounding the laboratory design approach.

Lori: What advice do you have for smooth collaboration between owners/tenants, architects, engineers, and an SME firm such as Facility Logix?

David: Open and honest communication, plain and simple.  At the beginning of the project, it is incredibly important that a chain of communication be established to ensure that the correct information is provided to the appropriate individual at the appropriate time. This will help prevent miscommunications, promote positive team dynamics, and improve collaboration. Missed communication between two parties can cause a chain reaction with the rest of the team.

Lori: Do you have a favorite design project you've worked on that you would like to share? What made it your favorite?

David: This is definitely a hard one, as I have had the opportunity to collaborate with many fantastic people and organizations. The first one that comes to mind is my very first project with Facility Logix.  The project itself was a relatively straightforward cGMP build; however, the project served as a huge learning experience for me and cemented my enthusiasm for working in this industry. I enjoyed the fact that I was able to work extremely closely with not only my client, but with an excellent design and general contracting firm.

Lori: Thank you for taking the time to chat with me today and share your insights into the lab planning process! These are invaluable tips for AEC professionals to hone their craft and be more effective lab planners and design stewards.

Facility Logix is a women-owned project management and owner’s representative firm that focuses solely on the life science industry. Its multidisciplinary team, consisting of those knowledgeable in architecture, engineering, construction, and the life science industries, provides it with unique insight into how it approaches projects and advocates for its clients’ interests.

Involved in the design industry since 2013, Lori has worked as an architectural designer for several years and currently works as the regional director for Ware Malcomb Washington, DC.

All opinions expressed in Design Between the Lines with Lori Ambrusch are exclusive to the author and are not reflective of Lab Design News.